Bhitarkanika Comes Alive as Birds Begin Nesting Season
Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha has once again transformed into a vibrant avian paradise as thousands of birds arrive for their annual nesting season.
With the onset of the monsoon, the mangrove forests are echoing with the calls of resident species such as Open‑billed Storks, Little Cormorants, Median and Large Egrets, Purple and Grey Herons, Darters, White Ibises, and Cattle Egrets.
The seasonal influx is driven by ideal breeding conditions: fresh rainwater, overflowing rivers, and abundant aquatic food sources like fish and snails.
Birds are building closely packed nests using reeds and water weeds, strategically placed above water levels to protect their eggs from flooding.
Major nesting colonies have been spotted in Mathadia, Durgaprasaddia, and Laxmiprasaddiha, turning these areas into hubs of ecological activity.
Wildlife experts note that the nesting season is a vital indicator of Bhitarkanika’s ecological health, showcasing the resilience of its mangrove ecosystem.
